Garlic for Dogs: Home Remedies and Safety Issues

Garlic as a natural remedy for dogs is at once very successful and very controversial for pet owners. Garlic for dogs as well as for human health is an excellent antibiotic and immune booster. It can stop and prevent infections, has been known to ward off fleas and ticks, and can be used for a variety of infectious skin ailments.

Caution: However, many dog owners and some vets advise against the use of garlic, as it may create toxic metabolites and/or cause certain serious allergic reactions.

Natural Pet Remedies: While nothing has been conclusively proven one way or another on the use of garlic as a home remedy for dogs, cautious and limited use seems best. Long-term use seems the most likely reason garlic may sometimes be unhealthy for dogs. Though in some dogs no ill-effects may ever be seen, and in other dog breeds no use of garlic may be entirely safe. Use caution, but don't disregard the potential of this effective natural cure for dog ailments.

Allergies 10

Approval Ratings

YEA (1)

100%

Posted by Marene (Adelaide, South Australia) on 04/23/2007

[YEA] My kelpie/border-collie suffered badly from an allergic reaction to grasses in spring, scratching her itchy skin until she had sores and needed vet treatment (cortisone, I think). Having suffered all my life with sneezing and runny nose in spring, . I had begun taking a horseradish and garlic capsule twice daily which cured me. So I began giving it to my dog, twice daily during spring and once daily for the rest of the year like me. She had no more trouble with itchy skin, or fleas and lived to be 16, suffering only from arthritis in the last couple of years. My new pup is only 5 months old and scratches regularly but not badly yet. I am wondering how old she should be before giving her the same capsules.

Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd 11

Approval Ratings

YEA (1)

20%

NAY (1)

20%

WARNING! (1)

20%

SIDE EFFECT (1)

20%

DEATH REPORTED (1)

20%

Posted by Ladybee (Oklahoma Ciy, OK) on 06/28/2007

[YEA] Garlic, the Facts, by Lisa S. Newman, ND, Ph.D.

"When it comes to your pet's health, do you want to follow facts or fears? Unfortunately, garlic has come under attack. This is primarily as a result of garlic's close cousin onion's reputation for triggering hemolytic or "Heinz factor" anemia (where circulating red blood cells burst) through its high concentration of thiosulphate. With onions, a single generous serving can cause this reaction. Garlic simply DOES NOT CONTAIN THE SAME CONCENTRATION of this compound! In fact, it is barely traceable and readily excreted (not stored in the body).

Despite this fact, garlic is falling victim to mass hysteria spread through the internet. Yes, there are 51,174 sites devoted to warning about the "toxicity" of garlic, this hysteria has even prompted the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center to place a warning on garlic although there is little scientific data to back this claim other than the fact that thiosulphate is also found in garlic. Yet, there are also over 400,000 sites still proclaiming its benefits, many of them from reputable holistic veterinarians who have widely used garlic in their practice for many years! How can an herb suddenly turn so bad?!

There is no doubt that onion, due to its concentration of thiosulphate, will cause Heinz factor anemia. In addition, as stated by Wendy Wallner, DVM, "Onions are only one of the substances which can cause Heinz body anemia. Other substances such as Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and benzocaine-containing topical preparations can also cause Heinz body anemia in the dog." The latter probably accounts for many cases as it is prevalent in creams often recommended for allergy-suffering pets due to its ability to numb the itch. It is absorbed through the skin and builds up in the blood stream. This other substance is likely to have been involved in cases where garlic was suspect.

For centuries, as long as humans have been using herbs, garlic has been a primary remedy turned to in a majority of cases. For as long as people have been using garlic, they have also been feeding it to their animal companions. Its properties have proven far reaching, easy on the body and safe to use. In the past fifty years, during the rebirth of holistic medicine in the United States, garlic has been in the forefront. Every text that I have researched on herbal health which mentions pet care has recommended it, especially for its incredible anti-parasitic and anti-septic properties. In my own experience, garlic has also benefited pets with cancer, diabetes, liver, heart and kidney disease, uncontrollable staph infections and a host of other conditions, as well as been a staple in my recommended preventative protocols. It has been widely used by hundreds of thousands of pet owners with no reported negative side-effects - except its effect on their animal's breath - until now. This is the point; garlic has suddenly become a "suspect," not proven the culprit. Do not let mass hysteria determine a holistic care program for your dog or cat. Follow hundreds of years of "proven use" rather than recent "suspicions" in regards to this miracle herb, as garlic is known to be. As with anything, do use garlic in reasonable doses, and do know that you can trust history over hysteria.

------

Since 1982, Dr. Newman has been a world renowned pioneer in the field of natural pet care. The author of nine books."

Replied by FrankKingston, Ny10/13/2010

Hello Doctor, All I know is that I gave my two dogs pieces of steak that had garlic seasoning on them and here were their symptoms:

Vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and both of them had asthmatic attacks. I didn't know garlic could do this either, but now I am convinced! ... Unless the seasoning I used had onions, too, but was not listed for some reason. I've heard that garlic does have a similar compound that is in onions and it depends on how it is fixed. Raw garlic and onions are very toxic, as well as the dried bulbs.

Sincerely, Frank Moretti

Replied by BbAtlanta, Ga Usa10/16/2010

Garlic is not harmful to dogs. Onions are toxic. I have used powdered & fresh garlic for my dogs for decades without any reaction. The "mix" you used must have had other ingredients that caused the ill effect.

Replied by DeirdreAlton, Ia10/30/2010

Garlic making dog sick. Could it be msg or a autolyzed yeast extract that made the dog sick?

Replied by JeannieDalton, Georgia12/20/2010

[SIDE EFFECTS] Last night my pup she weighs 3 pounds got on the table and ate a huge bulb of garlic. She had stomachache (gas) and had some really bad breath, that was 10 hours ago and shes ok. But it scared me to death. All my life I have herd garlic was good to rid your pet of pests now its poison. I looked on line called my vet and no one would tell me what to do for my pet. She still has a tummy ache but shes playing so I believe shes gonna be ok.

Replied by GeraldColumbus, Ohio Usa12/25/2010

Garlic is ok for a dog, in small doses (like a single clove) But a entire bulb would make anyone sick!

Replied by Amy Columbus, Oh12/29/2010

People just because you have a computer doesn't mean everything you read on there is true. I can google anything and there is always 2 sides. Just because it came from National Geographic doesn't me they are the end all be all of knowledge. If you paid any attention to her article you would see that although the chemical that is in onions is also in garlic but a substantially smaller amount. Any almost non existent amount is in garlic. Before you just make posts like they are FACT do a little more digging. There is too much ignorance in the world.

Replied by DanParis Crossing, In12/30/2010

You Are So Right Amy!! People Don't Look Up The Fact's , It's to Easy To Get The Heresay............. Don't Be Ignorant! State The Fact's!!

Replied by SeattlesbestemilySeattle, Wa01/18/2011

If you think garlic is more dangerous for your dog than pesticides you've got bigger problems than a few fleas!!! Garlic works. I've used it for five years on my dog and she's never had fleas... Plus she gets complimented on her coat regularly. Don't be silly... Trust centuries of use over 20 years of chemical company propaganda!

Replied by Debby Atascadero, Ca03/15/2011

We have a 7 pound Chiwawa (can never remember the correct spelling) with fleas. I would like to start giving her garlic. How much and how often should we give it to her? Should I use whole garlic, or can we use powder? Should I be concerned about additives in garlic powder? Could I put the correct size piece of garlic in a piece of cheese? Thank You for your Assistance, Debby

Replied by 5 Pooches HomeHouston, Tx03/16/2011

I have 2 chis and I give them plenty of garlic. Never had a worm or fleas. I give 2-3 cloves (medium size) each day. Never had a problem.

I am against garlic powder as that's not the real thing and is a processed food that has been chemically or mechanically altered. Plus it has other things that is no good. Always try to give your pooches the most natural earthy foods.

My chis also eat 100% home cooked meals. You can also give coconut oil in addition. Good for coat and joint problems and prevents OBESITY & diabetes in dogs. Buy a high quality one that is organic or expeller pressed.

Also for fleas as well as skin, after giving your chi a bath with a MILD BABY SOAP FREE SHAMPOO you should massage a good layer of oil on your baby all over - use coconut oil or almond oil or NEEM OIL (available at Indian grocery stores or internation isles or health food store). For skin conditions, NEEM OIL is the best. Mix with coconut or almond oil if you like. Oil is good for dog's skin as it prevents fleas, environmental toxins, pollution, dirt from getting into your dog's skin and thus protects the body as our skin is the biggest absorbing organ. Hope this helps!

Replied by DebbyAtascadero, Ca03/16/2011

Well, I'm sorry I don't know what a chis is. How big is it. My Chiwawa is about 7 pounds. I've read a few things about garlic being toxic for dogs, so I want to be sure I'm not giving her too much, but of corse want to give her enough to be effective. So how much for a 7# dog?

Also, she's a pretty "picky" eater, so I'm thinking it may keep her from eating her food, or she'll eat around it. If that happens, would it be OK to just "hide" it in a chunck of cheese; she loves cheese.

Thank you for all your other helpful information, very helpful.

You wouldn't know of any natural methods to get rid of them in the yard. We usually have very heavy freezes here, but haven't had them for a few years and I'm thinking that's why we're having such a flea problem. I really don't want to use chemicals in our yard, but may have to resort to that if this doesn't work :( Any suggestions?)

Thank you, Debby

Replied by 5 Pooches HomeHouston, Tx03/17/2011

By 'chis' I mean chihuahuas! I have 2 girls who weigh around 5 and 6 pounds.

Yes you can give her garlic anyway she likes. Commercial dog food is bad and maybe your dog is telling you she doesn't like it. If you can, try giving her freshly made homemade food. After a while you won't need any flea control coz when dogs eat homemade diet they have no odor inside or outside so no fleas find them interesting enough to come around. I have 5 dogs and all of them eat homemade and are all vegan. I give them brown rice with bunch of beans and veggies and they love it! No surprise NONE of them have fleas ever or any health or skin condition.

Also you can make your own flea spray and just spray on her while going outside.

1. In big bowl of water (3-4 cups), put in some lemon rinds and bring to boil.

4. If you like, you can add some essential oil like lavendor, tea tree or eucalyptus or neem oil.

5. Let the mixture steep over night. Cover it.

6. Put in spray bottle. Use.

For yard and house, use diatomaceous earth.

Plz. don't use chemicals. Our pets play, lick, lie, jump and relax on the floors and carpets and it goes directly in their skin and in their body when they lick themselves.

You can eaily give her 2 cloves of garlic each day. My chis are smaller and they eat 3-4 cloves each day easily!

Always know it NOT the mother nature's food (grown on earth's soil) that is the problem. Its the commercial dog food that is BAD and thus causes reactions to natural foods or what not! Thus the good thing gets bad publicity like garlic and avocadoes! When will people realize that its the deadly dog food they have been feeding their pet that's causing a reaction??

Good luck! Hope this helps.

Replied by LindaCitrus Springs, Florida, U.s.a.03/19/2011

[WARNING!] Just wanted to mention here... on using that diatomaceous earth, make sure its food grade! The other one is very dangerous to use around our animals. Linda

Replied by DebbyAtascadero, Ca03/19/2011

I was affraid to give my little Mitzi the garlic because of some of the testimonies about it causing long term bad effects. I called my vet and she said that a lot of her customers say they use garlic, but she couldn't tell me how much. I sure hope this helps as my poor dogs (We also have a very large Boxer, Spanky :) are just miserable.

Thank you for taking the time to give me all this helpful imformation... I'm going to try it... We, Mitzi, Spanky, my husband and myself, Debby, sure hope it helps :)

Blessings to You and all your little 4 legged friends! Debby

Replied by TshonaScottsdale, Az08/25/2011

[DEATH REPORTED] Garlic IS deadly for dogs. My poor sheltie just died a few days ago from eating 3.5 ounces of dried garlic he got into. He was totally healthy and fine before that. He was throwing up, became lathargic and with 8 hours was DEAD. I wish I would have know it is toxic to dogs, I would have taken him to the vet and they could have used charcoal on him, blood transfusion to replace the bursting blood cells and/or oxygen treatment. It causes a certain type of anemia and eventually kidney failure.

Replied by Mary RobbinsRed Bluff, California09/16/2011

Hey I been giving my 5 dogs garlic since they were all 6 weeks old I would never give them that much garlic I cut the garlic cloves in to little cubes and then they each get one cube a week. You don't ever want to overdose on anything- a little goes a long way. Theres no need to be giving them a lot because it may work or it may kill them. Too much of a good thing for any dog is very, very dangerous. Just a little bit, never more. It's like feeding fish- you never want to give them more just a little pinch of fish food and there set. Same thing when your giving dog garlic and no, never use garlic on a pregnant dog- it will make the milk toxic for the puppys. I learned that the hard way.

Replied by GarlicisnotsafeSpringvale, Me09/23/2011

[NAY] I trust the AVMA more and they clearly state that foods containing garlic should not be fed to dogs! Stop telling people it's safe! See for yourself, the research has been done! Some people have had their dogs die because of garlic! This is so irresponsible on your part!

I have been feeding garlic to my six year old Labrador. Till date no problems. I suspect that in West where processed food is the norm; unlike in India; other ingredients, especially preservatives and food additives are the cause of poisoning/bad health in dogs.

Instead of, processed food here is what I cook once and give it for 10 meals (twice a day, for five days)

Cook the mixture in a pressure cooker and divide it into containers. Refrigerate the containers and give one each meal.

Replied by JanetOpelousas, Louisiana10/19/2011

I just wanted to post my take of the AVMA article link that was brought up in NAY of giving garlic to dogs. First of all, I checked that link and there isnt much on there as to what they did. Also, it only states 4 dogs were given 1. 25 ml of garlic extract/kg of body weight (5 g of whole garlic/kg) and 4 dogs were the control dogs. My big question is how much did each dog weight. From everything that I have read concerning this issue, I would have to guess they researchers used very small dogs... The ones who couldnt handle garlic in this amount once a day for 7 days. To me, this is like saying that a sugar substitute WILL cause cancer in humans like it does in overdosed rats. My complaint about this research is that anything scientific is usually done in triplicate, no where does it state that this was done in triplicate. I'll continue to give my dogs garlic... After 10 years... If it hasnt hurt or killed them I reckon its not going to. I would like send thanks for this garlic article... I am sure it has helped answer a lot of people's questions.

Replied by AnonymousMenominee, Michigan10/23/2011

I would also like to respond to "NAY" (dtd 9-23-11). The AVMA article stated that the dogs were super-dosed. They were given approximately 5g of garlic per kg of weight. This is about one clove of garlic. If the dogs averaged about 20kg (roughly 40 pounds), then the dogs were given about 20 cloves of garlic a day! Who wouldn't have a reaction to a dose that high? On top of all of that, the article, written in 2000, was so vague in detail there is no way to come to a logical conclusion about the "scientific data. " Moderation and education people.

Replied by MatthewLawrence, Kansas, Usa11/25/2011

I'd like to also add that not only was there no testing done in triplicate, or even duplicate, but every scientific paper I've ever even glanced at was longer than the one in that link to the AVMA study. Also, giving 5g/ kg of garlic is like giving 1oz/ lb of sugar to a human. You're going to induce major reactions very quickly. Everything has the potential to produce bad, severe or even terminal results if the dosage is high enough!

I wasn't even aware that there was a debate about this. I just wanted to know if garlic was bad as I put it in the broth I'm making out of turkey leftovers and when I strain the veggies out I'm giving them to the dogs :)

Replied by Mrsfluffurs Port Richey, Fl, Usa12/14/2011

Question: I have read several posts about garlic pills. 2 out of 3 of my dogs will not eat the garlic in their food, I have also tried to hide the garlic in people food but they caught on. It doesn't matter if I use fresh or powdered garlic, they won't eat it. I have 1 tea cup Pomeranian, about 5lbs, a regular size Pomeranian, about 15lbs, and a terrier mix, about 20lbs. The garlic pills I have are the pearl kind with the garlic oil inside. The bottle says garlic oil 2000mg and on the back in the supplement facts box it says: amount per softgel:order less garlic oil 100:1, then under percent of daily value: 20mg. Under that the bottle states:(equivalent to 2000mg of fresh garlic bulb).

I have no idea how many mg are in a clove of garlic. These numbers seem high to me. I don't want to overdose my dogs and cause them harm.

Those of you that give your dogs garlic pills or soft gels how much do you give them? What does your bottle say as far as mg? Are my soft gels safe for my babies? I would really appreciate any help. We just lost one of our dogs last week. She was bitten by a snake. She was 16 yrs old. I wish I knew about the benefits of garlic before, maybe she would still be with us. I have 4 special needs children that we adopted, and the dogs have played a HUGE role in the children's therapy, I want to prolong the lives of my other 3 dogs, I can't bear to lose another dog and it's been absolutely devastating for the children. So if anyone knows if it's ok to give the dogs garlic in pill or softgel form and if so how much. Thank you very much.

Replied by DogmaHonolulu, Hawaii12/19/2011

Garlic is good for dogs but only in small amounts. Many vets and articles say no to garlic because there is potential to overdose = heart failure. You ARE trying to give way too much and likely, even the dogs know it. As we should listen to the wisdom of the children, we should do the same for our pets! And ourselves, obviously your intuition is warning you. Yes, those doses will likely kill them. They hardly need more than a little sliver for their size - for immune boosting, pest repellant, etc.

What are you giving it to them for, I wonder.

Find a holistic vet you can work with. They might suggest something better or a combination of things depending on your needs. At the least they would give proper dosage. You don't have to have one in your area - many of them will do phone consults. Your job is just to find one that you respect and trust to give you advice on natural remedies specific for your dogs. Organic Raw garlic is best - maybe hide a little sliver in a bit of organic beef? A dog who won't take something you hand them for no reason might take it if you get them to do a trick and the put it out as a treat which the usually take so quickly there is little time for investigation.

I'll check back to see if you have any more questions. In the mean time, take those pills yourself - sounds like you should be boosting your immune system with a house full of loving souls that need you!

Check this website it will show you the effects of garlic in the stomach, scientifically tested tnx

Replied by LbHouston, Tx09/11/2012

I wanted to comment on the AMVA article. I didn't read it and won't waste my time. My thoughts are this. What the heck? Why in the world would the researchers of that article super-dose and intentionally KILL dogs? They should be held accountable for intentionally killing animals because it sounds like that's what they set out to do and that's just exactly what they did! It's a good thing their study wasn't done in duplicate or triplicate! No one in their right mind would give anyone this quantity of garlic. Very, very sad to think about this.

Replied by MarkNc11/26/2014

After spending almost 2000 at the vet, I found simply feeding my German Shepherd salmon, rice, turmeric, and yes garlic did the trick.

Cancer 10

Approval Ratings

YEA (1)

100%

Posted by Catherine (Leeds, United Kingdom) on 05/28/2007

[YEA] My 13 yr old Scottish Terrier developed cancer in his mouth which spread to his jaw bone. The vet treating him removed it and said that it would probably give him another month or two at best. I began feeding him porridge oats with a wheatgrass shot on a morning and adding finely chopped raw garlic to his evening meal. I believe this slowed down the cancer considerably. He seemed as happy and fit as ever for another 8 months before I had to make the decision to have him put to sleep but on his final day he still went on a 3 mile walk with me and was running around and eating snacks.

Detox 10

Approval Ratings

YEA (1)

100%

Posted by Jessica (Phoenix, Arizona, USA) on 06/22/2007

[YEA] My 25# Cocker Spaniel tried to eat a, Arizona Bark Scorpion (Centruroides exilicauda) (The worst kind in North America) last night. She and the Scorpion survived the encounter, but the antivenom for these Scorpions is not recommended for dogs. So, rather than wait for her to develop symptoms that may be treated; (seizure, muscle tremors, breathing and digestive difficulties) I gave her Garlic to fight the poison from the Scorpion. It is believed that the thiosulfates that are toxic to dogs (the can cause the red blood cells in the body to burst) also fight the venom itself. My hope is that the thiosulfates will fight the venom before affecting her blood cells. Right now she is unusually sleepy, but otherwise there have not been any other signs of toxins (Garlic or Venom).

Digestion 10

Approval Ratings

YEA (1)

100%

Posted by DORIE (Spokane, WA) on 04/19/2007

[YEA] re; garlic for dogs: my miniature poodle is 12years old. at the age of 7 years old he began having a bleeding problem in his stool. he would not eat whenever his intestines were affected. after emoxicillan and 1800.00 in vet bills my husband and i started putting metamucil in his food. this seemed to lessen the occasions of the bleeding but did not eliminate it. last fall he started having blood in his stool about 3-4 times a week. as a last resort we took him off of store bought food and starting making his food at home. recipe: 1 lb browned ground beef 2cups minute rice after cooking will be 4 cups 1heaping tsp on minced garlic cooked in with the ground beef. 1 15oz can sliced carrots drained and rinsed 1 15oz canned potatoes drained and rinsed.

smash potatoes and carrots with a hand potato masher add rice and beef mixture stir well

my dog has not a bleeding episode since we began this regimen. he is happy energetic and thinks he is still a puppy. plus he loves his food.

I have 2 Yorkies under 3 pounds I'm wondering how much garlic I can give them for fleas & ticks and how often. I also live in the Mnt. where we have a lot of problems with fleas & ticks. Thanks for any help you can give.

Replied by Debra LynnLake Stevens, Wa Usa08/30/2011

Please research garlic for animals is only beneficial if provided in oil form. No garlic salt-powder-clove etc. I pop a garlic oil 3mg dietary supplement down both the cat & dog once a week. I use BORAX when I need to clean my home, no bug bombs. Wash bedding and vaccum all in one day. Use a pie plate dish with a little water in the bottom a couple drops of dishsoap will attract any fleas if you need to detect or confirm conquest. Yippee its easy 1-2-3

First, I would like to say that the recommendations of using 3 drops of hydro. Perioxide and a teasp. of honey worked wonders. I have 2 Cane Corsos and I recently took custody of my females brother who the original owners were not treating very well. He came into our home about 3 weeks ago and just last week (which would have been his second week with us) my female starting this type of gagging every so often every day, so I got online and came across the recommendation and I have to say, this gagging sound is gone. I also read that a dog can be a carrying so I am assuming my guy was a carrier. While treating my female I also treated our guy. Perfect no harsh chemicals. Thank you.

Now I have another ???, while reading this board during my search for KC treatment it was mentioned to give your dog garlic pills odorless ones. So I purchase a bottle of odorless garlic pills 1200 mg, but I am not sure if this is too much. The brand is a respected mfgr. Should I only give once a week, I don't want to hurt my pups, by the way they are both 10 months old and weigh 85 lbs.

I have been wanting to try the garlic for my dogs. My husband picked up galic oil from the health food store today. Is it okay to use garlic oil? And if so how much to put on there food or give orally??? The information would be greatly appreaciated!! Thank you

Replied by SarahChicago, Illinois09/29/2011

[YEA] After my Lab/shep mix died, I was a mess and found out I was killing my best friend slowly. sob.

My surviving dog is a shep/husky and is thriving on a clove of minced garlic mixed into wheat-free dog food, then she gets REAL people food in the form of 'Leftovers': Mashed potatoes, Asparagus, spinach etc...

The fresh garlic clove once every 2 days 1TBLS-ACV (apple cider vinegar) in water bowel has saved me so much money and pain.

I have an 11-12 lb, almost 2 year old Shih Tzu and would like to give her fresh garlic for fleas. What would be the amount I should give her. 1 Clove sounds like a lot for such a small dog. Any recommendations? Thanks!

Replied by Kiki2007 Morehead, Ky, USA08/20/2009

Could someone please list the amount of garlic recommended for the weight of the dog, ie 1 clove per x amount of weight. I have a Great Pyr at 120 pounds and a mixed shepard breed at 45 pounds. What would be correct amount and how often. Thanks!! I LOVE this site!!!

Replied by GinaLas Vegas, Nv03/12/2010

You say that you gave your dog Brewers Yeast tablets with Garlic?? Well that is where you went wrong because yeast isn't good for your dog.

I have two dogs. A Black Lab (115 lbs) and a Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer (55 lbs). I have been reading about giving the dogs garlic protection from fleas, ticks and mosquitos. Can I give them garlic pills rather than garlic? They are very picky eaters and I know they won't like the garlic in their food. If I give them the pills, what would the dosage be? How often would I give them the pills? What would be the best pills to buy? I use the orderless garlic softgels (10mg, equivalent to 1000mg of fresh garlic. My friend gives her lab 300mg (1 X daily) Kyolic Garlic. Can I use these? I do not want to use Frontline or Advantage for the fleas and I have not heard a lot of good things regarding Heart Guard for heartworms. I try to stay away from all the chemicals I can for myself and would prefer to do the same for my dogs. (I also have a twenty pound cat, too, that showed up at my door one day. Can I give her garlic too?) So any advise anyone would have regarding garlic or anything else natural would be appreciated. Thank you!

Replied by DeeHouston, Tx08/23/2009

[YEA] I give my 95 lb. Golden Retriever a full teaspoon of minced garlic in his food every morning. I have only seen 1 tick on him that was not yet into his skin, but only crawling on his fur. I also do Frontline Plus for flea prevention, but in Houston, nothing ever dies. The vet says he is very healthy. I found him as a stray and back then he was coated with fleas and ticks. Not anymore, and I believe it's due to the garlic!

Garlic Feeding Method: For the person asking how to administer garlic to her pet: my former wife found that unpleasant-tasting medications can be disguised in peanut butter. She wrapped the heart worm prevention capsule in peanut butter (this works great, assuming someone out there knows something I am not aware of relative to peanut butter and pets). Also, a woman I talked to recently says she feeds garlic pills to her three dogs once a month (she buys these pills at her nearby 99-cent store in 30-tablet bottles; however, I don't know the strength of these pills). Perhaps someone out there can tell us about how much and in what form?

DISCLAIMER: Our readers offer information and opinions on Earth Clinic, not as a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or health care provider before taking any home remedies or supplements or following any treatment suggested by anyone on this site. Only your health care provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.